Charles Hayden

Hartsville, S.C.

Charles Hayden, aged 74, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, surrounded by loving family. Born and raised in Hartsville, South Carolina, Charles dedicated his life to hard work and finding joy in the everyday. Throughout his 3-year journey with cancer, he remained positive, witty, steadfast and active until his last few days here on earth.

He enjoyed many careers, including 27 years as a supervisor with Sara Lee Corporation, earning admiration for his leadership and commitment. After retirement, he continued sharing his talents in the HVAC industry with Kentco Heating & Cooling — a second chapter that showcased his tireless spirit and hands-on integrity. Charles enjoyed golfing, camping, fishing, traveling, and casinos — always seeking new experiences and relaxation in equal measure. He especially loved summertime and the peace of sitting outside, soaking in warm breezes and quiet moments. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his loyal four-legged friend, Bella, whose presence brought him comfort and happiness.

Charles leaves behind his beloved children, Michelle (Phillip) Watford, Anthony (April) Hayden, and Melissa Hayden Winburn; grandchildren, Tyler (Hannah) Morris, Reagan (Andrew) Hall, Cassidy (Gage) Fischer, Bryson (Ashley) Morris, Andon Watford, Dillon Hayden, Drake Nester, Jared Winburn, Kendall Winburn, and Ryan Winburn; great-grandchildren, Rodney Atkinson, Jaxson Hall, Emrie Hall, Ivy Fischer, and Autry Fischer; along with too many special nieces and nephews to name. Also surviving are his siblings, Susan (Glen) Johnson, Gwen (Tony) Steinmeyer, and Otis Hayden. Charles shared a special bond with his niece and nephew, Kim (Hayden) and Mitch Wright, who shared their home with him for the past 2.5 years. He loved them both dearly, along with their children and grandchildren.

 Mitch was not only Charles’s traveling buddy, but also his closest friend for over 14 years — a bond that brought laughter, adventure and deep companionship. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, James Cornelius (JC) Hayden and Lillian Atkinson Hayden of Hartsville, SC, as well as his brothers, Russell, Franklin, and Ervin Hayden.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at Norton Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, July 17th at 3:00pm, with visitation beginning one hour prior to the service. Rev. Phillip Jones will officiate. Burial will be in the Hayden Family Cemetery directed by Norton Funeral Home.

Norton Funeral Home and Crematory are honored to serve the Hayden family.